Thursday, June 05, 2008

The Royals took first baseman Eric Hosmer from American Heritage High School in Plantation, Fla. in the first round of the draft this afternoon with the third overall pick.

Steve Phillips said that Hosmer is one of the top five power bats in the draft. He also said that Hosmer hit .487 in high school.

Keith Law pointed out that Hosmer hits for power to all fields.

ESPN is displaying graphics that say Hosmer is a solid defender who has an above average arm. He is said to have strong plate discipline. It sounds like Hosmer could be converted to a pitcher if the Royals chose to, but given his power at the plate, don't look for that to happen. It also sounds like Hosmer could easily be converted to a corner outfielder, and we all know how much the Royals need a power-hitting corner outfielder.

Hosmer is a Scott Boras client, and he's already signed to go to Arizona State, so he's got some bargaining power. The Royals are going to have to pony up to sign him. Within reason, I'd give him what he's looking for financially. I just would not promise him a spot on the 40-man roster.

Update: 10:06 pm: As typically is the case with our first round picks, I'm already a little irritated with this guy. He told the media in Kansas City this afternoon that he was too busy for a teleconference call with them. Please.

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